Treating the Prospective Neighborhood Like a Shopping Day at the Mall

You know that timeless show “Clueless” with Alicia Silverstone? It paved the way for mallrats, Paul Blarts, segways, mannequins, food courts, and lots and lots of bubblegum, but who would’ve thought that there was even a shred of knowledge lending to the art of house hunting? Or in this case, renting? (For all intents and purposes, this even applies to home mortgage help with H.O.P.E. to Own!)

Like, Seriously, Shop Around Your Neighborhood for the Best Properties

You can’t beat this particular strategy out of all rental tips available. Not only do you get in on the trends for real estate in your neighborhood — everything from what’s selling, to what prices have dropped, to location, to safety issues — but you also get to research any specific laws in your area just to make sure you’re kosher (and the landlord would be kosher as well).

This is especially true regarding apartment complexes. Feel free to peruse — like you’re shopping at the local Gap store for a new pair of khakis. You want to make sure the units (pants) are top notch and maintained regularly, complete with amenities. Visit the clubhouse. Maybe there’s an in-ground pool available as well. Is it maintained well? Consider that, for sure. Focus on your priorities. This is smart searching and buying (renting, actually), because you certainly don’t want to get stuck in a lease with a unit that makes your life miserable.